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Spend Christmas in Madrid 2024 | Museums, Navibus, Three Kings Parade, and more!
Weather in Madrid during Christmas
Average Temperature: 4 – 10 °C
Chances of Rain: December is one of the wettest months of the year in Madrid so we recommend carrying an umbrella.
What to Wear: The temperature tends to drop in December, and the weather becomes slightly breezy and chilly. Something moderately warm like a sweater should be enough to keep you warm during Christmas in Madrid, but you can also carry something warmer.
Madrid in DecemberTop things to do during Christmas in Madrid
1. Admire the Christmas lights
Like most European cities, Madrid also goes all out with lights during Christmas. The sparkling lights in important attractions, city squares, and streets add to the charm of the season. Giant Christmas trees in squares like Plaza de Espana, Sol, and Callao are definitely worth a visit. Don’t forget to see the light ball in front of the Metropolis building.
You can find the best Christmas lights here:
- Plaza de España | Find on map
- Gran Via | Find on map
- Light ball in front of the Metropolis building | Find on map
- Puerta del Sol | Find on map
2. Explore Christmas markets in Madrid
Madrid hosts a number of festive markets during Christmas. Like most cities, Madrid and its streets too, transforms during Christmas. With so many choices in different squares and corners of the city, you should definitely check out the different kinds of Christmas markets and fairs.
Madrid Christmas Market in Plaza Mayor offers over 100 colorful stalls selling wigs, hats, and nativity ornaments. Open daily from 10am to 10pm—it's a must-visit for any Christmas traveler!
Best places to go shopping in Madrid during Christmas:
- Plaza Mayor | Find on map
- Mercadillo de Navidad- El Corte Inglés Castellana | Find on map
- Feria de Artesanía de Recoletos | Find on map
- Feria Dulces de Navidad | Find on map
3. Watch a Flamenco show
Flamenco is a big part of folk culture of southern Spain. While the art form did not originate in Madrid, the city has always had many places that have authentic Flamenco shows. Enjoy an evening of singing, music and dance as you sip your favorite drink.
Best places to watch a Flamenco Show in Madrid during Christmas:
- Tablao Flamenco 1911 | Find on map
- Flamenco La Quimera | Find on map
- Flamenco Essential | Find on map
- Las Carboneras Flamenco show | Find on map
4. Take a look at Nativity Scenes in Madrid
Madrid is known for the large nativity scenes that are set up in city squares, centers, and streets. These elaborate scenes depicting the birth of Jesus is an age-old tradition in Spanish households.
Best places to see Nativity scenes in Madrid:
- José Luis Mayo Lebrija nativity scene | Find on map
- Municipal crèche in the Plaza de la Villa | Find on map
- Plaza Mayor | Find on map
- Puerto del Sol | Find on map
5. Visit the best Tapas bars
Madrid is best known for the large number of restaurants and bars within the city serving Tapas - a classic Spanish appetizer. During winters, you can escape the cold outside and get into a cozy bar and dig into some delicious Tapas.
Best places to have Tapas during Christmas:
- Bodega de la Ardosa | Find on map
- Restaurante Casa Amadeo los Caracoles | Find on map
- Refra Restaurant | Find on map
- Arbonaida Bar | Find on map
6. Ride the Navibus
The Navibus is the ultimate tourist delight, as it takes you around all the attractions in Madrid. You can see beautiful Christmas displays, lights, Nativity scenes and more. Remember to make reservations online. The bus leaves from the Salamanca neighborhood.
Things to experience on the Navibus:
- A glimpse of the city during Christmas
- Important areas like Plaza de España, Gran Via
- Deckup up monuments around the city
- The lights and nativity scenes
7. Visit the Museums of Madrid
Madrid has a large collection of museums. All of the museums take you back in time to specific eras and transport you to former cultural systems in the area. The museums will be less crowded during this time and are a must-visit if you’re interested in the history and culture of the city.
Must visit museums during Christmas in Madrid:
- Prado museum
- Reina Sofia
- Thyssen museum
- Sorolla museum | Find on map
8. Watch the Three Kings Parade
The Three Kings Parade happens every year on the 5th of January. If you’re planning to stay beyond Christmas and New Year, you shouldn’t miss the Three Kings Parade. The three kings - Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar are the Spanish equivalent of Santa Claus and they bring gifts and chocolates for the children.
Important facts about the Three Kings Parade:
- While the Three Kings Parade is held throughout the country, none are as large as in Madrid
- The 3 kings bring sweets and gifts for children
- There’s a firework show organized in front of Palacio de Cibeles
- No matter how old you are, you’ll enjoy the lights, color, music, and dance
9. Enjoy Serrano Ham in Madrid
Spain is known for its ham and if you’d like to have some flavorful, natural ham cured in the country air, you should try out Serrano Ham. Madrid has numerous eateries that serve Serrano Ham and there’s even a museum dedicated to Serrano Ham.
Best places to have Serrano Ham in Madrid:
- Cinco Jotas | Find on map
- Joselito’s | Find on map
- López Pascual 1919 | Find on map
- Museo del Jamon | Website
Plan your Christmas in Madrid
Getting around
Where to stay
Where to eat
Tips
- Metro: One of the easiest ways to get anywhere within the city, Madrid has an extensive underground system with 15 lines and over 300 stations.
- Bus: There are over 200 bus lines running across Madrid and they connect to every part of the city. Regular buses run till 11:30 PM and after that, there are night buses that run into the morning.
- Train: If you are looking to travel from Madrid to other towns and villages in the region, such as El Escorial and Aranjuez, trains are a fast and affordable option.
- Decadente: Decadente is a late-night restaurant that has an elevated atmosphere and serves creative meals and desserts, paired seamlessly with a curated selection of cocktails.
- Tony Roma's: Tony Roma's is a beloved steakhouse chain that has a longstanding reputation for its delectable ribs, signature onion loaf, and refreshing Romarita drinks.
- Amazónico: Amazónico serves up a fusion of Asian, Mediterranean, and Brazilian flavors, set in an Amazon-themed space that comes alive with live jazz.
- Mad Mad Vegan: Mad Mad Vegan is a trendy vegan restaurant that serves plant-based burgers, nachos and more, paired with a selection of craft brews.
- Reserve for Special Dinners: Many restaurants offer special Christmas menus. Ensure a spot by making reservations in advance, especially for traditional Spanish eateries that might be in high demand during the holiday season.
- Layer up and Check Weather: Madrid can be chilly in December, so pack layers and check the weather forecast. If you plan on spending time outdoors, bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves.
- Use Public Transportation: Madrid can get crowded during the holiday season. Utilize public transportation to navigate the city efficiently. Consider purchasing a travel pass for convenience.
- Book Accommodations Early: Madrid attracts visitors during Christmas, so book your accommodations in advance. Ensure a comfortable stay by reserving your hotel or vacation rental ahead of time.
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Frequently asked questions about celebrating Christmas in Madrid
Is Christmas a good time to visit Madrid?
Yes, Christmas can be a good time to visit Madrid. The unique traditions, food, festivities, and beauty of the city during Christmas make it worth a visit.
How do they celebrate Christmas in Madrid?
What are some things to do on Christmas in Madrid?
You can take a tour of the city through the Navibus and witness the attractions of Christmas. You can also visit the numerous Tapas bars with some tasty snacks.
How do families celebrate Christmas in Madrid?
Christmas eve is the most important Christmas day in Spain. Spaniards flock to go out to feast on food and sip sparkling cava. They also have the Three Kings - a tradition unique to Spain. The Three Kings is much like the Santa Claus tradition.
What is the weather like at Christmas in Madrid?
Although it is quite chilly, it does not snow in Madrid. Like most places near the Mediterranean area, Madrid experiences rain during winter. Temperatures can go as low as 4℃ during the evenings.
Is Madrid crowded at Christmas?
Madrid can get crowded during Christmas.
What’s open in Madrid on Christmas?
The numerous museums, parks, historic places and others are open in Madrid during Christmas.
What is the most popular Christmas market in Madrid?
The Mercadillo de Navidad - El Corte Inglés Castellana is one among the most famous markets in Madrid during Christmas.
Are restaurants open on Christmas in Madrid?
Yes, most restaurants are open on Christmas in Madrid.
What are the best places to stay in Madrid on Christmas?
Icon Wipton, Petit Palace Alcala, and Villa de la Reina Boutique are among the top hotels in Madrid.
What should I eat in Madrid on Christmas?
You should definitely try out the various tapas bars in Madrid. If you’re interested in having Serrano ham, you should also check out top places which serve Serrano ham.
What are the best restaurants for Christmas in Madrid?
Bodega de la Ardosa and Restaurante Casa Amadeo Los Caracoles are among the famous restaurants in Madrid
Where can I see the Christmas lights in Madrid?
You can see Christmas lights in over 100 streets and squares throughout the city. The most important ones are in Plaza de España and the Light ball in front of the Metropolis building.
What are some Christmas traditions in Madrid?
Christmas markets, traditional Christmas food, the Christmas lottery, the Three Kings Parade, and New year’s Eve at Puerto del Sol are some Christmas traditions in Madrid.